GQ Magazine : Inside NBA Style Wars

Before players throw on their jerseys and sneakers, you can catch them arriving to the arena in the latest looks from top fashion houses. As I discussed in previous articles, the emergence of fashion has continued to make a splash in the NBA world. Not only are top NBA players competing for dominance on the court, but now the most dominating fashion sense. That short walk from the bus to the locker room, has turned into a runway, as we watch top players like Kobe Bryant and Kevin Durant arrive wearing Givenchy, custom Valentino and Christian Louboutins. This battle off the court has continued to catch the eyes of top fashion magazines, as GQ recently did an article called “Inside NBA Style Wars”. In the article, it talks about the influence of high fashion in the NBA and how players define their personal style. The article of course, discusses fashion leader Russell Westbrook and how he is referred to as the “Kate Moss of the NBA”. It also touches on the struggle some players have, like 6 foot 9 all star Kevin Durant to find clothes for his unique size. 

Be sure to check out the article featured on their website, as NBA players are transforming into the fashion elite, at GQ.com .

-@SarahTresChic15

The Bulls Extinguish the Heat, and Put an End to the Streak, 101-97

Lebron James and the Miami Heat had their eyes set on win number 28 as they traveled to the “Windy City” last night, to take on the Bulls. Although Chicago was without key players, Joakim Noah, Richard Hamilton and Marco Belinelli, the Bulls managed to beat the Heat, 101-97, ending their 27-game winning streak. The game was competitive and intense, even a bit physical. Lebron put on a playoff worthy performance as he scored 32 points, blocked 4 shots and grabbed 7 rebounds, but it wasn't enough. He even collected a flagrant foul after getting a bit frustrated towards the end of the game. For the rest of Miami’s Big Three, Dwayne Wade had 18 points and 7 rebounds and Chris Bosh with 21 points. Throughout the streak the Heat has been able to erase deficits, so when they were down 46-55 at the half, they were expected to go on a run as they have done in previous games. That wasn't the case last night.  Defending the ball was a big part of the game, and although Chicago’s line up didn't seem too intimidating, they managed to out-rebound the Heat 43-31. In addition to their great defense, every player that entered the game for the Bulls played with intensity, as the outscored the Heat 22-8 in second chance points. Luol Deng scored 28 points; Carlos Boozer had a double- double, 21 points and 17 boards. Jimmy Butler made a splash as he finished with 17 points and 5 assist, including a dunk on Chris Bosh. Nate Robinson was very productive off the bench, scoring 14 points including a clutch 3-pointer with a minute to go. This was a big victory for the short-handed Chicago Bulls. 

The Bulls not only snapped Miami's 27-game winning streak, they have also won 3 games in a row.With this win I'm sure the Bulls have found some confidence as they prepare themselves for the playoffs. After a few days off, Chicago will be in Dallas to face Dirk Nowitzki and the Mavericks. 

As for the Miami Heat, what they have done the last 27 games was phenomenal. Along with making history, with the second longest streak in the NBA, they are also the leagues best team on the road. They have nine games left before the playoffs, and they play against the Hornets in New Orleans tomorrow. Their final game of the season will be at home against...the Bulls. Will it be pay back or will Chicago cool them off again? Stay tuned. 

-@SarahTresChic15 

Nuggets vs Hornets: New Orleans ends Denver's 15-game Winning Streak

  The Nuggets were on the verge of extending their 15-game winning streak as they flew to New Orleans to go against the short-handed Hornets. New Orleans without their starting point guard Greivis Vasquez and Eric Gordon, both out with injuries, were expected to fall to the streaking Nuggets. Well the Hornets got a surprising victory last night, snapping Denver's 15-game winning streak, 110-86. New Orleans had complete control of the match up. While shooting over 48 percent for most of the game, they also played great defensively, to slow down the Nuggets. The Hornets shot well from 3-point range, and had seven players in double figures, led by Ryan Anderson who came of the bench scoring 23 points. Roger Mason Jr had 14 and Brian Roberts with 13 points and a career high, 18 assist. While in the third quarter they extended their lead by 23 points and even when the Nuggets starting to go on a run, the Hornets maintained their defense and closed out the quarter with an 86-68 lead. Robin Lopez and Lou Amundson made it difficult for the Nuggets to get into the lane, as they cut off penetration and challenged all shots. With all this defensive pressure, Denver was held to only shooting 37 percent. Danilo Gallinari led the Nuggets with 24 points, followed by Kenneth Faried with 13 and Wilson Chandler who returned from a shoulder injury after missing 2 games scored 11. Denver played without Ty Lawson for the third consecutive game, still out due to a heel injury. He was definitely the missing key last night.

New Orleans, not only surprised everyone with this victory, but also achieved their best opening half of the season with their 21 point lead. The Hornets are at home tomorrow against Chris Paul and the Clippers.

Though the 15-game streak has come to an end, it was still very impressive. Denver put together a double digit winning streak that surprised a lot of people. Even though 9 of their wins were at home, they got 6 wins on the road including a big win against the Thunder. The Nuggets still have a 1 game lead over the Grizzlies and are hoping to maintain it to get home court advantage in the playoffs. Denver heads to San Antonio tomorrow, to take on the best in the west, the Spurs.

-@SarahTresChic15

Rachel Johnson: Stylist to NBA Stars

It was during the 2005-06 NBA season, when commissioner David Stern implemented a mandatory dress code for all players in the NBA and D-league. This meant that players had to be dressed in business casual attire when arriving and departing games, while on the bench injured or anything affiliated with the NBA. For players, this was just another thing to worry about in addition to their performance on the court. To minimize the stress on choosing appropriate attire, players hire stylist. One of the top stylists in the NBA is style maven, Rachel Johnson.

While an English major at Florida A&M University, she realized her passion for fashion and decided to make it a career. Rachel Johnson got her start stylizing top artist in the music industry, such as JaRule, Jamie Foxx and Pharrell Williams. After much success with her clients in the music world, she realized that she could make a huge impact. She then decided to expand her roster of clients and stepped into the NBA world. Her first client was Jalen Rose.While styling Jalen Rose, she noticed that there is value for brands when NBA players are dressed in their products. Not only do NBA clients get a lot of press, they frequently need help, due to their large stature. After continuing to make a name for herself, she began styling NBA superstar and champion, Lebron James. One of her notable accomplishments with Lebron, was styling him for the April 2008 cover of Vogue magazine alongside supermodel Gisele Bundchen. Though the cover received a lot of negative controversy, as critics compared the photo to a "gorilla like" stereotype, Rachel Johnson did not allow the negativity to deter her career goals and moved forward. Her clientele continues to grow, as she now styles for more NBA stars, Amare Stoudemire and Chris Paul. 

When dressing her superstar clients, she is influenced by a combination of classic Hollywood style and street style. I am sure her empire will continue to grow, as fashion and sports are increasingly intertwined to cultivate a particular image of celebrity and success. 

-@SarahTresChic15

Oklahoma City vs Memphis: Big Point by Marc Gasol for the Win in OT

  This was a game of Western Conference contenders, as the Oklahoma City Thunder flew to Memphis to face the Grizzlies. The match up was filled with lots of intensity and felt like a playoff game,as Marc Gasol tipped in Zach Randolph’s miss with 0.9 seconds left to give the Grizzlies the win in OT, 90-89. Memphis shot very well in the first half to give them a 10 point lead, although Oklahoma City started to make a run, the Grizzlies managed to maintain their lead, 44-38 as they headed into half time. Mike Conely scored 24 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assist. Jerryd Bayless had a big game off the bench with 20 points. The big men, Marc Gasol and Zach Randolph both finished with double-doubles, Randolph, 15 points and 18 boards Gasol, 14 points and 15 rebounds. Going into the third quarter, Kevin Durant and Kevin Martin had 10 points apiece at the start, while Zach Randolph had 12 points for Memphis. This game was all about defense for the Grizzlies, as the held one of the best 3-point shooting teams in the league to a season low, 35.7%. For Oklahoma City Kevin Durant had 32 points and 8 rebounds, Russell Westbrook, 20 points and  Kevin Martin with 17 points. Kendrick Perkins didn't contribute too much on the offensive end, but grabbed 16 boards. In the third quarter, Kevin Durant began to take over offensively, scored 13 straight points, finishing with 15 total giving his team a 57-56 lead. Entering the fourth, Marc Gasol was fouled; he made his two free throws, giving Memphis the lead 58-57. Oklahoma City stayed aggressive in the second half after poor shooting in the first. Both teams battled in the fourth quarter, which included 14 lead changes and 4 ties. With 3.7 seconds left in regulation, Jerryd Bayless hit a big 3-pointer, and the battle continued in overtime. Tabo Sefolosha hit the first two points in overtime on a pair of free-throws for Oklahoma City. Memphis followed with scoring the next 5 points. Stars Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook responded with the next following points for the lead, 89-88. But Memphis wasn't done yet, as Marc Gasol tip-in finishes the game.

The Grizzlies win the season series against the Thunder, 2-1. They are currently tied for third in the playoffs for the western conference with the Clippers, trailing Oklahoma City by 4 games and are just a half-game ahead of the high-flying Denver Nuggets. Next for them is tomorrow night in New Orleans to take on the Hornets.

Oklahoma City Thunder is still looking to snatch the number one spot from the Spurs. I’m sure they will continue to fight as they are now 1 ½ game behind them. They continue on the road to Orlando…

-@SarahTresChic15

Miami Gets 23rd Consecutive Win in Boston

In 2008 the Boston Celtics snapped the Houston Rockets winning streak, would they be able play spoiler once again. Well the Celtics gave it all they had but it was not enough as they were unable to cool off the Miami Heat last night, 105-103. The Celtics pushed and hustled for the entire game, without Kevin Garnett, who was still out with a thigh strain and the flu. Jeff Green had an outstanding performance, scoring a career high, 43 points, helping his team led by as much as 17. Paul Pierce finished with 17 points, 8 rebounds and 8 assist but missed a game winning 3-pointer, with a few seconds left. Although Boston led by double digits, Miami had Lebron James. Lebron scored 37 points and 12 assist including a clutch jumper with 10 seconds left in the game for the lead. For the remaining members of the “Big Three” Dwayne Wade had 16 points and 7 rebounds, followed by Chris Bosh with 13 points. Mario Chalmers had a big game, 21 points including big 3-pointers to cut into the Celtics lead. This is Miami's first win in Boston since they formed the "big 3" in 2010. 

Without their floor general Rajon Rondo, the Celtics have put together an unexpected 16-7 record and are currently in 7th place in the eastern conference. They definitely needed their veteran Kevin Garnett last night. He is expected to play tomorrow against the Hornets as they begin their 3 game road trip.   

The Miami Heat are on the verge of extending their streak even further. They haven't lost a game since February 1st and fly to Lebron's former home Cleveland to take on Cavaliers, without Kyrie Irving.Will the Heat surpass the 1971-72 Los Angeles Lakers for most consecutive wins in NBA history? Stay tuned.

-@SarahTresChic15

Undermanned Knicks Couldn't Avoid getting Clipped by Chris Paul and Company

No surprise in today's outcome between the New York Knicks and Los Angeles Clippers, without key players, Carmelo Anthony, Tyson Chandler, and Amare Stoudemire, the Knicks fell to the Clippers 93-80. The Knicks didn't have much of a chance without their stars, against the deepest team in the NBA, the Clippers. New York was out rebounded and was held to only shooting 36% from the field. Los Angeles struggled a bit in the 1st half with 10 turnovers, but still managed to maintain their lead. Blake Griffin posted a double double, 12 points and 12 boards, and Chris Paul scored 20 points and had 8 assist to help lead the Clippers to victory. Caron Butler, Jamal Crawford and Chauncey Billups were all in double figures as well, to help balance out the scoring production. This win keeps the Clippers ahead of the surging Nuggets and scrappy Grizzles, for third spot in the western conference, while adding on to their impressive win total."LA's other team" is on the verge of setting a franchise record, for the highest amount of wins in a season. As for the Knicks, this road trip hasn't been pretty, they have lost 4 straight, all by double digits. J.R. Smith led the way with 17 points, Raymond Felton with 16 points, rookie Chris Copeland finished with 13 points, and veteran Jason Kidd scored 11 points. Steve Novak finally got out of his slump and hit a few big 3’s during some key moments, but all in all, it just wasn't enough to overcome the star studded team.

 
Next up for the Clippers, are the Sacramento Kings.It will be interesting to see DeMarcus Cousins and Blake "Must See TV" Griffin battle against each other, with their history from last season. I'm sure everyone remembers when Cousins said Blake Griffin is babied by the refs, and gets a lot of foul called because of his star stature.

 

It's obvious the Knicks are suffering without their key players and the Brooklyn Nets are right behind them. "New York's other team" can tie for first in the Atlantic Division with a win and a Knicks lost. The Knicks have a must win game in Utah if they want to stay third in the playoffs race.
-@SarahTresChic15

Baldwin Denim

 Finding pants that fit well can be challenging at times. Too tight, too big, poor quality or all of the above. When shopping  I look for quality and comfort, especially in a pair of jeans. If you’re looking for some great pants, Baldwin Denim is definitely a brand to try. The Kansas based company has been turning into a success since launching their denim collection in 2009. Designer, Matt Baldwin and his wife/co-founder Emily, use high quality American and Japanese denim to help achieve that perfect fit. Recently Matt Baldwin was named one of GQ's top new menswear designers. Top notch quality that is true to the classic American style yet modern, is the best way to describe the brand. Ever wondered what brand of camouflage pants Jay-Z wears, while sitting court side at the Nets game? Baldwin Denim, Jay-Z is a huge fan of the camo pants and wears them often. Also, NBA superstar Kevin Durant is a supporter of their products. Another plus for Baldwin Denim is that, the clothing is made in the USA. The shop is located in Kansas but they are sold in many stores across the country and even a store in Japan. If you’re looking for premium denim for men and women I recommend picking up a pair. 

-@SarahTresChic15

LA vs Orlando: Dwight Howard Responds to Boos with a Big Game for the Win

  Dwight Howard’s departure from Orlando was filled with drama and Magic fans felt betrayed. So there wasn't a surprise that he didn't receive a warm welcome last night as the Lakers took on the Orlando Magic. Dwight’s first return to Orlando after the trade was met with boos and signs sarcastically welcoming him home. The reaction from the crowd did nothing but motivate him and, he put on a show. He scored 39 points, 16 rebounds and had 3 blocks. Orlando’s strategy for the game was to intentionally foul Dwight since we all know that he struggles at the line. That strategy backfired. Not only did he take 39 trips to the line, tying is own record for free throw attempts, he actually made most of them. To Orlando’s surprise Dwight Howard made 25 of 39 free throws. His spectacular performance gives The Lakers their 4^th straight win, 106- 97. The chemistry between Kobe Bryant and Dwight Howard continues to improve after their struggles early on. His advice to Dwight before the game was to “just come out and kill them”. Though Dwight was the star, it was a team effort. Six players for the Lakers were in double figures. Metta World Peace had, 14 points, Kobe Bryant with, 11 points and 8 assist, Steve Nash scored 11, Antawn Jamison and Jodie Meeks finished with 10 a piece. Not only did The Magic’s strategy against Dwight fail miserably, they didn't have much help on the offensive end. They had four players with 10 or more points, but only shot 37% from the field.

The Lakers are officially in the playoffs however, they have to continue to focus and win games like this especially on the road. They have 8 games left on the road and 8 at home. 

-@SarahTresChic15

Russell Westbrook Makes his Complex Magazine Debut

The NBA Allstar Russell Westbrook is considered one of the most stylish ballers of our time. Not only does he make headlines for his amazing athleticism on the court, his unique style and fashion sense does as well. In the latest issue of Complex Magazine, Russell Westbrook talks about his style and why he takes an unconventional approach to fashion. For instance, he discusses how his mother influenced his attraction for clothes and how he isn't afraid to wear whatever he wants. May I also add, he is now one of three NBA players  to ever grace the cover of Complex, joining Kobe Bryant and Allen Iverson. For more details on his off-court style, check out the April/May issue of Complex Magazine. 

-@SarahTresChic15 

Bulls vs Lakers: Lakers Defeat The Bulls and Take Possession of the 8th Seed

  The Lakers have battled and fought their way through most of the season. The grinding has paid off as they defeat the Bulls, 90-81 and win their 3rd in a row. Most importantly with this victory they jump over the Utah Jazz and get possession of the 8th spot in the playoffs. The Lakers led most of the game, with their largest lead being by 18 points. This victory was definitely a team effort. They had six players in double figures. Great performance by Dwight Howard who grabbed 21 rebounds, 4 blocks and scored 16 points. Leader Kobe Bryant though he was quiet in the first quarter, had 19 points and 9 assist. Steve Nash finished with 16 points; Earl Clark scored 11 points and Metta World Peace with 12. Jodie Meeks also contributed, with 10 points off the bench. The Bulls started to chip away at the  Nate Robinson’s 19 points led The Bulls followed by Joakim Noah who had 18 points and 17 rebounds. Carlos boozer struggled with only 12 points thanks to defense by Metta World Peace. Chicago still remains short-handed without, Derrick Rose, Taj Gibson, Kirk Hinrich, and Richard Hamilton.

Chicago can regroup over the next few days and then head over to Sacramento to go against the Kings on Wednesday. 

Kobe and The Lakers  have an opportunity to continue climbing the playoff ladder as they head to Orlando to play the Magic.Will they make it as high as the sixth seed? Stay tuned  

- @SarahTresChic15

Utah vs Chicago: Short-handed Bulls Rally for the Win

  Big win last night for the short-handed Chicago Bulls. The Bulls played at home against The Jazz without some of their key players, Taj Gibson, Kirk Hinrich, Richard Hamilton and of course Derrick Rose. Derrick Rose has been cleared to play by doctors, but still isn't feeling 100%. The Bulls managed to get the win, 89-88. Marco Belinelli hit the winning 3-pointer with 5.9 seconds left , thanks to smart pass by Jimmy Bulter. Marco Belinelli had 22 points and Carlos Boozer also had 22 points plus 10 rebounds. Nate Robinson finished with 14 points and Joakim Noah only had 9 points but 13 rebounds. As for Utah this is the last thing they needed. They were down 9 at the half but with Al Jefferson and Marvin Williams combined 19 points in the 3rd quarter, got the team back in the game. Then Utah went on a 10-0 run giving Utah the lead midway through the 4th. Al Jefferson had 23 points and Marvin Williams, 14 points. Late hustle wasn't enough as they lose their 3rd game on the road. They have left the door wide open for the Lakers who are right behind them.

The Jazz continue on the road to New York to play against the Knicks..who may still be without Carmelo Anthony. They can't afford to lose this game.

For the Bulls, they fly to LA to face Kobe Bryant and the Lakers who refuse to stop grinding for a spot in the playoffs.

- @SarahTresChic15

Paris Fashion Week Fall 2013: Hermes

  Paris Fashion Week officially came to a close a few days ago. Throughout the week top Parisian designers showcased their collections for autumn/winter. Christophe Lemaire for Hermes was one of my favorites. His collection was neat, chic and contemporary. Beautifully made capes cut perfectly, paired with pencil skirts. A lot of separates were made of leather, long skirts, pants and even tops that didn't look stiff or bulky. Accompanying the leather pieces, were suede and fur coats. For accessories, Hermes signature bangles decorated the wrist and not too many bags. The collection looked effortless, loved it.


-@SarahTresChic15
 

OKC vs Lakers: Lakers Fall Short Against The Thunder

  

     The Lakers are currently in ninth place and haven't given up in their fight for a spot in the playoffs. The battle continued last night on the road in Oklahoma City. As expected this match up wouldn't be easy and the Lakers struggled most of the night losing, 122-105. The Thunder led throughout the entire game thanks to their stars, Russell Westbrook and Kevin Durant. Russell Westbrook had 37 points and 10 rebounds and Kevin Durant followed with 26 points and 9 rebounds. As they entered the second half, they led by 18. But with big 3-pointers by Kobe Bryant and Steve Nash, they cut Oklahoma City's lead to only 5 in the last few minutes of the forth quarter. Kobe Bryant managed to finish with 30 points after injuring his elbow in the beginning of the game. Steve Nash had a great night and matched his season high with 20 points. Dwight Howard had 6 points and 16 rebounds but fouled out with 2 minutes left in the game. Even though the Lakers got within 5, Oklahoma City finished the game with a 12-0 run. The Lakers were down 6 points, but couldn’t connect on the last four possessions. Serge Ibaka hit a 3-pointer and helped extend the lead. The Thunder played a good game all around and took care off the ball very well, setting a franchise record with only 2 turnovers for the entire game.

  Oklahoma City heads to New York tomorrow night to play the Knicks. Carmelo Anthony did not play in the game tonight against the Pistons and his status for tomorrow is unclear.

 The Lakers get a break and then play at home against the Raptors. Hopefully Kobe Bryant's elbow injury isn’t too severe as they continue their playoff race. 

- @SarahTresChic15

Fashion Find: Surface to Air

  

   

   Three words for the brand Surface to Air; Trendy, Chic and Sophisticated. Came across this brand a few weeks ago and I love it. The Brand is based in Paris and after much success they opened store a couple of years ago in Soho, located at 27 Mercer. They have hip clothing and accessories for both men and women. Tons of looks and styles to choose from, you can easily mix and match. Their trousers and leggings are my favorites so far for women. As for men, the outerwear especially the leather jackets. Kid Cudi has even designed a leather jacket in collaboration with Surface to Air. Very cool brand I know i'll be picking up a few pieces. 

http://www.surfacetoair.com/store/

-@SarahTresChic15

The Heat vs The Knicks: The Knicks Couldn't Cool off The Heat

 Big game today in New York against Miami. After losing the first few games by as much as 20, The Heat were not trying to repeat the trend. They entered the game with a 13-game winning streak, and made it 14 by finally defeating The Knicks, 99-93. Miami was down double digits heading into the 3rd quarter thanks to Carmelo Anthony. He finished with 32 points and had a strong first half. Jason Kidd finally looked productive on the offensive end, knocking down four 3-pointers, 11 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assist. J.R. Smith had 13 points and 12 rebounds but didn't shoot to well from the field. After a slow start, The Heat found some rhythm in the second half. Lebron James led his team with, 29 points, 11 rebounds and 7 assist. Gave his team a scare after taking a fall following a shot, appeared to look injured which he quickly shook off. Lebron was pretty much unstoppable down the stretch. Dwayne Wade added 20 points, 8 rebounds, and 8 assist. Another key player for Miami, Shane Battier who knocked down big 3's to help remove the double digit deficit. They pretty much controlled the last few minutes of the game. The Miami Heat now have the longest winning streak in the league at 14.

 The Knicks 3-game winning streak ended today, now its off to Cleveland, as Melo & company take on the Cavaliers tomorrow night...Can The Heat continue their streak in Minnesota, or will Ricky Rubio and the Timberwolves extinguish the Miami's hot streak? We shall see.

Oklahoma City vs Denver: Big Shot by Ty Lawson for the Win

 Great match up last night between two of the best teams in the west, the Denver Nuggets and the Oklahoma City Thunder. Denver's bench was amazing, out scoring Oklahoma's City's bench 71-11. The Nuggets Wilson Chandler led the way, matching his career high with 35 points. His great performance had a huge impact on the game. The Thunder were down by 9 at half time, but were not going away that easy. Russell Westbrook had good night finishing with 38 points, 5 assist and 6 rebounds, kept Oklahoma City in the game. Kevin Durant, 25 points and 14 rebounds, included a shot within the last 17 seconds of the game to tie it at 103. For Denver, Ty Lawson was pretty quiet only scoring 11 points, but hit a huge shot with .2 seconds left in the game. Oklahoma City's Thabo Sefolosha's good defense didn't stop Ty Lawson as he hits a 3 pointer for the win, 105-103. Impressive win for The Nuggets who keep improving their record at home which is now 25-3.

 The Thunder have lost their last 5 out of 6 games on the road and are at the staples center to play Clippers on Sunday. I hope they come together, losing on the road is not good trend for championship contenders.

- @SarahTresChic15